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Bill

SB 444

Public Safety - Gun Buyback Programs - Destruction of Firearms

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Will Smith

Maryland establishes voluntary firearm buyback program compensating citizens for guns destroyed to reduce civilian weapon circulation and associated public safety risks.

Motion Special Order until Next Session (Delegate Clippinger) Adopted
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Bill Summary · SB 444

Legislative bill overview

SB 444 establishes a voluntary gun buyback program in Maryland where the state purchases firearms from private citizens and destroys them. The bill outlines procedures for accepting firearms, compensating owners, and ensuring proper destruction of collected weapons as a public safety measure.

Why is this important

Gun buyback programs aim to reduce the number of firearms in circulation, potentially lowering access to weapons for criminal use or impulsive violence. Maryland's approach reflects growing state-level efforts to address gun violence through supply-side interventions rather than solely relying on federal policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and effectiveness debate: Critics question whether buyback programs cost-effectively reduce gun violence compared to other public safety spending, noting that criminals rarely participate
  • Second Amendment concerns: Gun rights advocates argue the program infringes on constitutional rights and may disproportionately affect law-abiding citizens
  • Funding and sustainability: Questions about long-term program funding, compensation rates, and whether resources justify participation rates in a state with existing gun ownership

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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